Inside a Knox College Wedding: Historic Charm in Downtown Toronto
At a Glance: Knox College Photography
Location: 59 St George St, Toronto (U of T Campus).
Vibe: Gothic Revival architecture, moody, dramatic.
Permit Required: Yes, strictly enforced.
Best For: Dramatic portraits, architectural lovers.
Key Spots: The Grand Staircase, The Cloisters (hallways), The Chapel.
If you’ve been following my blog, you might remember my recent feature on Photographing a Pre-Wedding Shoot at Knox College. That post quickly became a favorite among our readers, and it’s easy to see why. The neo-gothic architecture and that specific, golden light that floods the hallways create an atmosphere you simply can’t find anywhere else in Toronto.
But Knox College isn’t just for pre-wedding sessions. It is, without a doubt, one of the most breathtaking venues to host your actual wedding day.
Today, I want to take you inside a real wedding at this historic University of Toronto landmark and share why—from a photographer’s perspective—booking Knox College for your ceremony and portrait session is one of the best investments you can make for your wedding memories.
The Ceremony: Bathed in History and Light
Walking into the Knox College Chapel feels like stepping into a different era. The soaring ceilings and the majestic pipe organ provide a sense of grandeur, but it is the light that truly steals the show.
As I mentioned in my previous post, the direction of light inside Knox is gorgeous. During a ceremony, that massive stained-glass window acts as a natural softbox, backlighting the couple and creating a dreamy, ethereal glow. Whether you are exchanging vows or walking back down the aisle as a married couple, the architectural depth of the chapel ensures every angle looks cinematic.
The Portrait Session: Why Interiors Matter
One of the biggest selling points of Knox College is that you don’t need to travel to a separate location for your creative portraits. The venue is the art.
While outdoor photos in Toronto are beautiful, weather is unpredictable. Knox College offers a "weather-proof" solution that is arguably more stunning than the outdoors. The cloisters, the stone archways, and the intricate hallways offer a moody, romantic vibe that allows us to create editorial-style images right on site, immediately before or after your ceremony.
Style Tip: Choosing the Perfect Gown for Knox College
As a photographer who has shot here many times, I often get asked for advice on styling. If you are getting married at Knox, or planning a photoshoot here, I have one major recommendation regarding your dress.
Go for the "Long Train"
The Grand Staircase at Knox College is iconic. To truly do it justice, a wedding gown with a long train or a voluminous skirt is the perfect choice.
Why? It comes down to geometry and elegance. When you stand on those stairs, a long train cascades down the steps, creating a leading line that draws the eye directly to you. It elongates the body, improving the visual ratio and making the bride look taller and more regal. A fitted dress is beautiful, but a dress with a dramatic train fills the space and balances the heavy stone architecture, resulting in a photo that looks like a page out of a fashion magazine.
Capturing Your Legacy
Just like my experience with Sherry and Michael’s pre-wedding shoot, photographing a wedding here is a privilege. It is about capturing the quiet moments in the cloisters, the joy of the recessional, and the timeless beauty of a couple in love against a backdrop of history.
If you are planning a wedding at Knox College, or are looking for a photographer who understands how to utilize this unique lighting and architecture to make you look your best, I would love to tell your story.
Are you ready to create magic at Knox College? Contact us today to discuss your wedding photography.
Frequently Asked Questions about Knox College Weddings
Q: Do I need a permit to take wedding photos at Knox College?
A: Yes, a permit is mandatory for all wedding photography. You must book it in advance through the University of Toronto's Campus Events office. Security guards actively check for permits on the day of the shoot.
Q: How much does a photography permit cost at Knox College?
A: As of the latest update, the fee is generally around $350 CAD plus HST for a one-hour session. However, prices can change, so it is best to verify directly with the booking office.
Q: What happens if it rains on my wedding day?
A: The interior features—specifically the Cloisters and the Grand Staircase—offer stunning, covered backdrops that look incredible regardless of the weather outside.
Q: Can we take photos in the Chapel?
A: Photography in the Chapel is usually allowed if there isn't a wedding ceremony or service taking place. However, your permit typically grants access to the general common areas (Staircase and Cloisters). Chapel access should be confirmed when booking.
Q: How far in advance should I book the location?
A: Knox College is extremely popular. It is recommended to book your permit at least 3-6 months in advance, especially if your wedding is during peak season (May to October).